Elaiussa Sebaste Ancient City - Mersin

Elaiussa Sebaste Ancient City is an ancient settlement located within the boundaries of Ayaş Village in the Erdemli district of Mersin Province in southern Türkiye, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. The settlement was initially established on a small island and later developed connections with the mainland. The name of the city is derived from the combination of the Greek word “Elaiussa,” meaning “olive grove,” and “Sebaste,” an honorific title given in honor of the Roman Emperor Augustus.

Location and Natural Environment

Elaiussa Sebaste Ancient City is situated on the Mediterranean coast in a location with natural harbor characteristics. The city’s relationship with the sea has been decisive throughout history for trade and transportation. The ancient settlement is notable for its surrounding agricultural lands and particularly favorable natural conditions for olive production.

Elaiussa Sebaste Ancient City (Culture portal)

Historical Development

Hellenistic Period

The foundation of the city dates to the 2nd century BCE. During this period, Elaiussa functioned as a small-scale island settlement and played a limited role within the regional trade network.

Roman Period

During the Roman period, Elaiussa Sebaste emerged as a coastal settlement and port city. This era saw the construction of public buildings and infrastructure elements, as well as the expansion of the urban fabric. Harbor activities and olive oil production were key components of the city’s economic life.

Byzantine Period

The settlement continued to exist during the Byzantine period; however, it gradually lost its former prominence as other coastal settlements in the region developed. Religious structures and cemetery areas from this period indicate the city’s continued use in late antiquity.

Architectural and Archaeological Remains

At Elaiussa Sebaste Ancient City, remains of a theater, agora, temples, bathhouses, basilicas, necropolis areas, and harbor facilities have been identified. The necropolis area is notable for its rock-cut tombs, sarcophagi, and monumental burial structures. Efforts are underway to restore and open this area to visitors.

Restoration work aimed at re-erecting columns from the bathhouse structure contributes to the preservation and understanding of the city’s architectural elements.

Archaeological restoration work (Culture portal)

Water Supply Systems

Elaiussa Sebaste was connected to a water supply system linking it to the settlements of Ayas and Korykos (Kızkalesi). Built during the Roman period, this system transported water to the city through arches and channels. The water infrastructure formed an essential component of the city’s ancient urban infrastructure.^【1】

Archaeological Excavations and Research

Systematic scientific excavations and research at the ancient city have been conducted since 1995. These studies are carried out under the authorization of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and with the participation of international scientific teams. Annual seasonal excavations aim to document, preserve, and restore architectural remains.

Amphora fragments uncovered during excavations are analyzed after reconstruction and conservation efforts, providing insights into the city’s commercial connections.

Archaeological Finds

Amphora fragments related to commercial activity have been recovered during excavations. Conservation and reconstruction work on these finds continues, and the resulting data provide archaeological evidence of the city’s maritime trade relationships.^【2】